MONEY
LET’S TALK
Clinical psychologists note that when kids don’t have enough information about something, they may become anxious, make up their own explanations—which can include blaming themselves for a perceived problem—or seek information from other, potentially unreliable sources. Experts recommend talking to your children about financial concerns, keeping in mind that the level of detail shared should be based on your child’s age.
Preschool and Elementary Age Experts suggest limiting financial discussion with very young
children to the basics. If the economy is struggling, you might tell them that this can happen when businesses spend more money than they have and have to pay back what they borrowed.
You might also explain that when money is tighter, they may need to wait a little longer to get certain items such as new toys. Psychologists emphasize the need to be honest, but reassuring, letting children know that tough financial times are only temporary and that you will always provide them with everything they need.
How to talk to your kids about tough money matters “Tweens” and Teens
OUTDOORS
CAMPING
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Children in this age group are old enough for you to explain what financial terms mean and why the economy doesn’t always perform well. You might also provide an overview of how credit works, introducing terms such as interest, risk and liability.
A WARM SHOWER
Fill a garbage bag with water in the morning, then hang it from a tree branch. The afternoon sun will warm the water; in the evening you can stab holes in the bag with a stick to rinse off.
If they want to go on a vacation or buy that new video game system, ask for their ideas on how to save up the money. If you can’t afford to eat out as often, let them pick a favorite restaurant for a special monthly or quarterly meal.
CARRY EGGS SAFELY
Just crack them into a water bottle before you leave home, then shake and cook for scrambled eggs.
MAKE A CAMP KITCHEN
Tie your belt around a tree at head level to hang up pots and pans.
DON’T GET COLD FEET
Fill a bottle with warm water and put inside a pair of socks, and drop in your sleeping bag before dinner. At bedtime put on the socks and hop in your bag with the warm water bottle. The Pinnacle of Quality
March 2020
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PREVENT RUST
Save those “Do Not Eat” silica gel packs and store them in your cookware between trips to fight rust.
ALWAYS HAVE A PILLOW
Tell them how you’ve been spending and saving, describe struggles you’ve faced, and outline the steps you’ll take to shore up finances. You can also help them build their own budgets and saving plans. Being honest about financial mistakes you’ve made can help your children avoid them in the future. The Grand Season family
Forgot a big lantern? If you have a small wearable headlamp, use its strap to tie it to the side of a clear jug or water bottle, shining inward—the water will diffuse the light like a lantern. No headlamp? Strap up your cellphone with its light on. If there’s rain in the forecast, open a garbage bag inside your pack, and stuff your sleeping bag and clothes inside that to keep them dry.
College Kids
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MAKE A DIY LANTERN
LINE YOUR BACKPACK
You could also engage your kids in family budget decisions, particularly should you feel a financial pinch.
Experts say that at this age, families should be open and straightforward when discussing finances. In addition to helping college-age kids understand a change in the economy or other financial development, explain what it could mean for your family’s financial situation and whether it could impact them.
The weather is just about perfect to start planning your first camping trip of the year. Here are some tips to help, if you run into unexpected problems:
No, don’t bring a pillow—that takes up too much space! Just stuff extra clothes inside a t-shirt to use it as a pillow at night.
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If grandpa could camp without pricey gear, so ca you! No tent? Throw a tarp over rope between trees. No sleeping pad? Use your yoga mat.
March 2020
The Grand Season family
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